Abstract: A differential features an inexpensive lightweight housing formed of sheet material the rugged construction of which makes it extremely resistant to damage and distortion in use. The embodiment illustrated comprises a housing the peripheral wall of which is defined by a tube segment having a generally rectangular configuration. Each end of the tube segment is capped by a plate centrally contoured about a central aperture to form thereon a cup-like projection the configuration of which is that of a conically tapered, outwardly and axially directed shell the apex of which is truncated. In the case of each end plate the conically tapered shell-like projection seats and nests therein a complementarily shaped sleeve type bearing set in place by offsets of that portion of the plate which defines its base. The respective end plates and their contained bearings, as so paired, each accommodate the projection therethrough of one of the differential shafts.